In 2009, a dendrologist named Dr. Martin Gossner was researching the resilience of tree bark. When he cut back a piece of bark on an old tree in the Bavarian Forest National Park, he was stunned by his discovery of the living organisms behind that piece of bark:
- 2,042 insects and other organisms
- 257 various species
The tree, Dr. Gossner concluded, had become its own ecosystem.
If you ever doubt the complexity of God and his creation, cut a piece of bark. Or better yet, seek God on behalf of your recovery. In him, you will find a Creator who knows you intimately and whose healing powers run far deeper than you can imagine.
Recovery Step: “The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork” (Psalm 19:1). The God of the universe stands ready to partner with you in your recovery. There is no need to go it alone.
Author: Mark Denison
Mark and Beth Denison, married for 36 years, launched There’s Still Hope as a national movement to call men and women into lives of sexual integrity. Their ministry offers 90-day recovery plans for addicts and one-on-one and group coaching for addicts and their spouses. TSH also produces resources for pastors and churches to confront the porn epidemic that is destroying so many lives.
Dr. Denison was a senior pastor for over 30 years, NBA chaplain, and board chairman at Houston Baptist University three times. With a Master’s Degree in Addiction Recovery, Mark is a certified PSAP and active member of the American Association of Christian Counselors.
Mark has written four books on recovery: Porn in the Pew, 365 Days to Sexual Integrity, A 90-Day Recovery Guide, and 40 Days to Porn-Free Living. His latest book, Jesus on the 12 Steps, will be released later this year.
